**1. Introduction**

Early childhood education and care is a critical phase in children's lives, laying the foundation for their future academic, social and emotional development. Preschool education and care programmes aim to support young children's learning and development, allowing them to explore, experiment and develop their skills in a safe and supportive environment [1]. However, there are multiple perspectives and approaches to preschool education and care, each with guiding principles and methods. In this chapter, we will explore these different perspectives and approaches to early childhood education and care, including the models of preschool education, the philosophies and methods that guide preschool education, the role of teachers and caregivers, family involvement, quality standards, challenges, opportunities and future directions. By understanding these diverse perspectives, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the field of early childhood education and its impact on children's lifelong learning and success.
